Qantas wins out on in-flight tech

28 September 2006

Qantas Airways has been named the world’s No. 1 airline for in-flight entertainment by the World Airline Entertainment Association (WAEA) at its 27th Annual Conference and Exhibition. Garnering the top award for the second year in a row, Qantas received top honors for Best Overall In-flight Entertainment.

Also acknowledged were the airline’s robust entertainment options, including Best In-flight Entertainment Guide and Best Entertainment for Inseat Systems (full cabin).

“It is an honor to be recognized as one of the premier examples of excellence, especially when it comes to providing passengers the best in-flight entertainment,” said Wally R. Mariani, senior executive vice president of Qantas Airways, The Americas and Pacific. “Our ongoing commitment to our passengers distinguishes us as a leader and innovator in the airline industry, especially when it comes to in-flight amenities. On all non-stop flights from the U.S. to Australia, Qantas is the only carrier to offer award winning entertainment options to all its passengers,” he added.

—Brand new, state-of-the-art Total Entertainment system recognized with the highest Avion Award

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—Personal seatback video screen with a choice of new release movies, TV shows, Q Games and Q Radio

—The latest trend in entertainment with Audio Video On Demand (AVOD) that gives passengers control of their own entertainment options is being progressively introduced

—Economy Class passengers can choose from a variety of movies, television programs, Q radio channels and games

—Business and First Class passengers have a choice of additional new release movies and all-time favorites

Each year, the Association acknowledges innovation in in-flight entertainment for the world’s leading airlines. A 23-member expert panel rates airlines and awards the honors for in-flight audio, video, print and interactive media. Determined by a composite score each qualifying airline receives, the awards, now in its 18th year, honor excellence in several categories, including “Best Overall.”

Founded in 1979 as a non-profit organization, the WAEA is the official worldwide network representing nearly 100 airlines and more than 250 airline suppliers committed to excellence in in-flight entertainment and communications and the continual improvement of the airline passenger environment.——-